Local guide and map for Gite for vacations with pool in the Charente-Maritime, France

Location

Set in gently rolling countryside and surrounded by woodland, apple orchards, sunflowers and vineyards and only a short drive from the coast. The local lanes are a delight for a quiet stroll or a family cycle ride when you can spot lots of interesting wildlife including huge birds of prey circling the woodland. When you are bored with watching the sun go down over your BBQ, there are plenty of good restaurants within a short drive.

There are a wealth of pretty villages and fishing harbours to be explored on the nearby massive Gironde Estuary, 15 minutes by car. There are cycling paths and fishing along much of the estuary shore. The fabulous golden family-friendly beaches at Royan and St Georges are little more than half an hour away. You have a choice of sophisticated and safe town beaches, cornish coves with superb rock pools and completely wild atlantic surf. If you bring a fishing rod you could have some really fresh fish for the BBQ!

Royan, St Georges and Meschers offer everything you would expect from good seaside resorts. There is a world class zoo just north of Royan at La Palmyre.

There are a wide range of tourist attractions for adults and children for example, the aquarium at La Rochelle is superb, you can become a prehistoric man and try to spear a wild boar at the Paleosite near Saintes, you can go boating on the river Charente or the sea at Royan, there are caves to explore and loads of the usual seaside entertainments like mini-golf.

The nearby town of Saintes offers Roman arches, amphitheatre and churches to explore and a plethora of chateaux and restaurants are waiting to be discovered. Jonzac (10 minutes) has a lovely Chateau and historic walks through the medeival walled town.

Cognac, Rochefort and Ile D’oleron are all within easy driving distance, with La Rochelle and Ile de Rey further up the coast. Cognac has some surprisingly entertaining visits at the headquarters of brands like Remy Martin.

Heading south, Arcachon with it’s famous Pyla sand dune and beaches are a must to visit and Bordeaux offers chic French city life.

The wildlife of the area is unbelievable - a tribute to the traditional farming methods in use. You will see lots of very large birds of prey as you drive around.

Where you will find the nearest...

• Bar (Tabac): Plassac (Charente-Maritime)
• Boulangerie: Plassac (Charente-Maritime)
• Marché: St Genis De Saintonge (Charente-Maritime)
• Office de tourisme: St Genis De Saintonge (Charente-Maritime)
• Pharmacie: St Genis De Saintonge (Charente-Maritime)
• Supermarché: Mirambeau (Charente-Maritime)

See Activities and attractions for more information on nearby activities and places of interest.